Antioch, Illinois offers outdoor recreation ranging from Village parks, playgrounds and athletic fields to hiking and biking trails, forest preserves, fishing and nearby Chain O’Lakes State Park. Popular destinations include Sequoit Creek Park, Raven Glen, Ethel’s Woods, Pine Dunes and the Tim Osmond Sports Complex, giving residents and visitors outdoor options throughout the year.

Exploring the Outdoors in Antioch, Illinois

Antioch's location in northern Lake County creates an interesting combination of local parks, protected natural areas and lake-oriented recreation.

The Village of Antioch maintains more than 165 acres of developed parkland, along with another 75 acres of open space and natural areas. Beyond the Village park system, Lake County Forest Preserves manages several significant natural areas in Antioch. The nearby Chain O’Lakes adds boating, fishing, paddling, camping and additional trails to the list.

If you are looking beyond outdoor recreation, our guide to things to do in Antioch throughout the year covers seasonal events, downtown activities and other ways to experience the community.

Here are some of the outdoor places worth exploring.

What Parks Are in Antioch IL?

Antioch's Village park system ranges from smaller neighborhood parks to athletic complexes and community gathering spaces.

One of the largest is the Tim Osmond Sports Complex at 96 E. Depot Street. The Village lists the 78-acre complex as having football, baseball, softball and soccer fields, a playground, pavilion, open space and an 18-hole disc golf course.

For a more traditional park experience, Centennial Park at 601 Anita Street has historically included baseball fields, tennis courts, a play structure, pavilion, picnic tables and open space.

Centennial Park is particularly worth watching in 2026 because the Village is undertaking the first phase of a major renovation. Planned Phase 1 improvements include a renovated playground, new pavilion, dual-use tennis and pickleball courts, fitness stations, an internal walking and biking trail loop, accessibility improvements, native plantings and other site upgrades.

Because that work is occurring in 2026, check the Village's current project information before visiting to confirm what is open.

Other Village properties provide additional choices. Pedersen Park at 680 Highway 173 includes a playground, pavilion, fishing and open field, while Osmond Park at 579 Valleyview Court provides a playground, volleyball court and open space.

What Can You Do at Sequoit Creek Park?

Sequoit Creek Park at 845 Main Street provides a different kind of outdoor experience because of its downtown location.

Rather than being isolated from the rest of the community, the park can be part of a larger downtown Antioch visit.

The park includes a splash pad with seasonal operating hours established by the Village. For the 2026 season, the Village announced splash pad hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, weather permitting.

Sequoit Creek Park also serves as a location for community programming, including the Village farmers market during its scheduled season.

Visitors should be aware that specific park rules apply. Pets must be leashed, dogs are not allowed in the playground area, and swimming or wading in Sequoit Creek is prohibited.

Because amenities and seasonal hours can change, check the Village of Antioch before planning your visit.

Where Can You Hike Near Antioch IL?

For hiking, Antioch has several substantial Lake County Forest Preserve properties.

Raven Glen Forest Preserve

Raven Glen Forest Preserve is located at 41080 N. U.S. Highway 45 and covers 604 acres.

The preserve has 6.8 miles of trails in total. Trail uses vary by section, with opportunities for hiking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and horseback riding.

Raven Glen also includes 33-acre Timber Lake, where two fishing piers extend over the water.

One important feature is the pedestrian tunnel beneath Route 45 connecting Raven Glen with neighboring Ethel's Woods. This creates a larger outdoor recreation corridor without requiring pedestrians to cross Route 45 at street level.

A short section of the regional Millennium Trail also runs along Raven Glen's eastern edge.

Ethel's Woods Forest Preserve

Ethel's Woods, at 19330 Miller Road, encompasses 501 acres and offers 1.6 miles of gravel trails.

Those trails are open for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. Four scenic overlooks take advantage of the preserve's rolling landscape.

Ethel's Woods also includes oak-hickory woodlands, wetlands and the restored North Mill Creek corridor.

The connection between Ethel's Woods and Raven Glen makes these preserves particularly useful for people who want more than a short neighborhood walk.

Pine Dunes Forest Preserve

Pine Dunes at 42909 Hunt Club Road offers another trail experience.

The 956-acre preserve contains 2.8 miles of gravel trails, four boardwalks and three scenic overlooks. Trails are open for hiking, bicycling, cross-country skiing and horseback riding.

Pine Dunes also connects to the Des Plaines River Trail along Russell Road toward Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve in Wadsworth.

That connection helps put Antioch's local trails within the context of Lake County's much larger trail network. Lake County Forest Preserves currently maintains more than 210 miles of public multiuse trails countywide.

Can You Bike Around Antioch's Forest Preserves?

Yes, although permitted uses differ by trail.

Raven Glen, Ethel's Woods and Pine Dunes all provide designated bicycling opportunities. Pine Dunes also connects with the Des Plaines River Trail, while portions of the Millennium Trail run through the Antioch area.

The best approach is to check the official preserve map before riding. A preserve may include several types of trails, and not every trail necessarily allows every activity.

Trail status can also change because of weather, flooding, restoration work or construction.

Where Can You Fish in Antioch?

Fishing options include Village parks, Lake County forest preserves and the much larger Chain O’Lakes system.

At Raven Glen, fishing is permitted at Timber Lake, which has two fishing piers. The Forest Preserve notes that fishing is not permitted at White Slough.

Pedersen Park is another Village property that lists fishing among its amenities.

For anglers looking for a larger water system, the Chain O’Lakes is one of the major recreational resources in this part of Northern Illinois.

Fishing regulations, seasons and licensing requirements can change. Always check current Illinois Department of Natural Resources regulations and the rules for the specific property before fishing.

How Close Is Antioch to Chain O'Lakes Recreation?

The Chain O’Lakes is a major part of the outdoor recreation landscape around Antioch and northern Lake County.

Chain O’Lakes State Park borders Grass Lake, Lake Marie and Nippersink Lake, as well as the Fox River connecting other lakes within the system.

Illinois DNR lists boating, fishing, hiking, bicycling, camping, picnicking, kayaking, horseback riding and winter recreation among the activities available at the park.

For hiking, Nature's Way is a 2.25-mile trail beginning at the Oak Grove Picnic Area. The park also has a quarter-mile accessible trail at Pike Marsh North, eight miles of equestrian trails and a six-mile biking and hiking trail.

Kayak launches are available at Oak Point on the Fox River and at Turner Lake.

Boaters should pay particular attention to current rules. Illinois DNR states that boats using the Chain O’Lakes require a Fox Waterway Agency user fee. State boating rules also apply.

If the Chain is an important part of the lifestyle you are exploring, our guide to the communities around the Chain O’Lakes explains how Antioch fits into the larger Lake and McHenry County lake region.

What Outdoor Recreation Is Available During Winter?

Antioch's outdoor season does not necessarily end when winter arrives.

Lake County Forest Preserve trails at Raven Glen, Ethel's Woods and Pine Dunes allow cross-country skiing on designated trails when conditions permit.

Chain O’Lakes State Park lists snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and ice skating among its winter activities when conditions are appropriate.

The William E. Brook Entertainment Center in Antioch also includes a sledding hill.

Winter conditions can change quickly. Always check the managing agency's current information before heading onto trails or ice.

Which Antioch Outdoor Destination Should You Choose?

The right destination depends on what you want to do.

For hiking and nature:
• Raven Glen
• Ethel's Woods
• Pine Dunes

For biking:
• Raven Glen
• Ethel's Woods
• Pine Dunes
• Chain O’Lakes State Park trails

For sports and disc golf:
• Tim Osmond Sports Complex

For downtown outdoor recreation:
• Sequoit Creek Park

For playgrounds and picnics:
• Village parks including Centennial, Pedersen and Osmond

For fishing:
• Raven Glen
• Pedersen Park
• Chain O’Lakes State Park and the broader Chain O’Lakes

For boating and paddling:
• Chain O’Lakes State Park and the Chain O’Lakes waterway

Checking the official park or preserve website before visiting is worthwhile, especially when weather, construction, seasonal operations or special events could affect access.

What Do Parks and Trails Tell You About Living in Antioch?

When people compare communities, parks and outdoor recreation can be part of the decision.

The important question is not whether Antioch has outdoor amenities. It clearly does. The more useful question is which amenities you would actually use and how conveniently they are located relative to a particular home.

Someone who spends weekends boating may evaluate location differently from someone who wants quick access to hiking trails, athletic fields or a neighborhood playground.

If you are researching a possible move, our Antioch IL cost of living guide covers housing, taxes, utilities and other everyday expenses.

You can also review our current Antioch real estate market update for recent information about home prices, inventory and buyer activity.

The Star Home Team's Perspective

We think one of the best ways to evaluate Antioch is to spend time experiencing different parts of the community.

Walk Raven Glen. Visit downtown and Sequoit Creek Park. Explore Ethel's Woods or Pine Dunes. Drive toward the Chain O’Lakes. See which amenities you would realistically use and how they fit into your normal routine.

That can provide context that a map or real estate listing cannot.

Antioch includes traditional neighborhoods, lake-area properties, newer homes, larger lots and homes in different municipal and unincorporated settings. Exact location matters.

If you are considering moving here, explore the community first and then compare homes for sale in Antioch with the places and amenities that matter to you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antioch IL Parks and Trails

What are some of the best places to hike in Antioch IL?

Raven Glen, Ethel's Woods and Pine Dunes are three major Lake County Forest Preserve destinations in Antioch. Raven Glen has 6.8 miles of trails, Ethel's Woods has 1.6 miles of gravel trails, and Pine Dunes offers 2.8 miles of gravel trails. Permitted activities vary by trail, so check official maps before visiting.

Does Antioch IL have biking trails?

Yes. Bicycling is permitted on designated trails at Raven Glen, Ethel's Woods and Pine Dunes. Chain O’Lakes State Park also has a six-mile biking and hiking trail. Pine Dunes connects with the regional Des Plaines River Trail along Russell Road, expanding the possibilities for longer rides.

Where can you fish near Antioch IL?

Fishing opportunities include Timber Lake at Raven Glen, Pedersen Park and the Chain O’Lakes. Chain O’Lakes State Park provides access to a much larger recreational fishery. Fishing rules and Illinois licensing requirements apply, so anglers should check current IDNR regulations and site-specific rules before fishing.

Is Chain O'Lakes State Park near Antioch?

Yes. Chain O’Lakes State Park is a major outdoor recreation destination in the Antioch and northern Lake County area. The park borders Grass Lake, Lake Marie, Nippersink Lake and the Fox River and provides boating, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, picnicking, horseback riding and seasonal winter recreation.

Are there playgrounds in Antioch IL?

Yes. The Village of Antioch maintains multiple parks with playgrounds, including Tim Osmond Sports Complex, Centennial Park, Pedersen Park and Osmond Park. Amenities differ from park to park, and Centennial Park is undergoing Phase 1 improvements in 2026, so check the Village for current access and construction information.

Can you walk from Raven Glen to Ethel's Woods?

Raven Glen and Ethel's Woods are connected by a pedestrian tunnel beneath Route 45. Lake County Forest Preserves describes the two preserves as a combined natural greenway corridor that expands recreation opportunities while also supporting conservation and wildlife protection.

What is being changed at Centennial Park in Antioch?

The Village's 2026 Phase 1 plan includes a playground renovation, new pavilion, dual-use tennis and pickleball courts, fitness stations, an internal walking and biking trail loop, accessibility improvements, native plantings and additional site amenities. Because construction status can change, visitors should check the Village's current Centennial Park project updates.

Are there outdoor activities in Antioch during winter?

Yes. Depending on weather and conditions, options include cross-country skiing at designated Lake County Forest Preserve trails and winter activities at Chain O’Lakes State Park such as snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Always verify current trail, weather and ice conditions before participating.

Explore Antioch Outdoors

Antioch's outdoor recreation is larger and more varied than any one park.

Village parks provide playgrounds, sports facilities, gathering spaces and community recreation. Raven Glen, Ethel's Woods and Pine Dunes offer access to larger natural landscapes and trail systems. Nearby Chain O’Lakes State Park adds boating, fishing, camping and extensive water-oriented recreation.

Together, they give residents and visitors many different ways to experience northern Lake County outdoors.

And if exploring Antioch has you considering making the community home, The Star Home Team can help you understand the available properties, neighborhoods, lake-area options and current local real estate market.

Sources

Village of Antioch. “Parks & Recreation.” Current Village park and recreation information.
Village of Antioch Parks & Recreation

Village of Antioch. “Centennial Park Master Plan Phase 1 Update.” Current 2026 project information.
Centennial Park Project Update

Village of Antioch. “Community Update: 2026 Sequoit Creek Park Splash Pad Hours.” May 27, 2026.
2026 Sequoit Creek Park Splash Pad Hours

Lake County Forest Preserves. “Raven Glen Forest Preserve.” Current preserve information.
Raven Glen Forest Preserve

Lake County Forest Preserves. “Ethel's Woods Forest Preserve.” Current preserve information.
Ethel's Woods Forest Preserve

Lake County Forest Preserves. “Pine Dunes Forest Preserve.” Current preserve information.
Pine Dunes Forest Preserve

Lake County Forest Preserves. “Trails.” Current countywide trail information.
Lake County Forest Preserve Trails

Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “Chain O’Lakes State Park.” Current park information.
Chain O’Lakes State Park

Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “Activities at Chain O’Lakes.” Current recreation and trail information.
Chain O’Lakes State Park Activities

About the Author

Susan Starwalt is the Broker Owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Star Homes and The Star Home Team, serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Licensed since 1998, Susan works alongside Jim Starwalt and the company's management team to support one of the region's top-producing real estate organizations.

The Star Home Team has helped more than 4,000 families buy and sell homes and is recognized as one of Illinois' leading real estate teams. The team serves buyers and sellers throughout Lake County, McHenry County, Kenosha County, and surrounding communities, providing expert guidance, local market knowledge, innovative marketing, and personalized service.

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